Translation guide
The English word 'alight' has two main uses: to get off a vehicle (especially formal or British) and to land or settle on something (like a bird or insect). This guide focuses on the most common and natural Japanese equivalents for each meaning.
Expressing the action of disembarking from a bus, train, car, etc.
The most common and versatile verb for getting off any vehicle. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
Describing a bird, insect, or light object coming to rest on a surface.
The most common verb for a bird or insect landing on something. Also used for things coming to a stop.
The English word 'alight' can also mean 'on fire' or 'lit up', but that is a different word. This guide only covers the verb meaning 'to get off' or 'to land'. For 'on fire', use 燃えている (もえている) or 火がついている (ひがついている).
バスを降りた。
I got off the bus.
I'll get off at the next station.
A more formal, written expression specifically for getting off a train or bus. Often used in announcements or formal writing.
Please alight here.
Similar to 下車する but even more formal and technical. Used in official contexts like transportation guides.
Please make sure you have all your belongings when alighting.
A bird alighted on the branch.
A butterfly is alighting on the flower.
A more poetic or literary expression for something lightly descending and landing, like a bird or snow.
A swan alighted on the lake.
Literally 'step down', but can be used for birds or people alighting from a vehicle or onto the ground. Somewhat formal.
The eagle alighted on the rock.